Rep. Fleischmann comments on UPF

Friday

Dec 13, 2013 at 3:12 PM

On Tuesday, U.S. Congressman Chuck Fleischmann, R-Third District, submitted the following comments to the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board’s Safety in Design, Operatiaons, and Emergency Preparedness at the Y-12 National Security Complex Public Hearing and Meeting.

from staff reports

On Tuesday, U.S. Congressman Chuck Fleischmann, R-Third District, submitted the following comments to the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board’s Safety in Design, Operatiaons, and Emergency Preparedness at the Y-12 National Security Complex Public Hearing and Meeting.

“Dear Dr. (Peter S.) Winokur (chairman) and Board Members:

“Oak Ridge, Tenn., has long played a significant role in the national security of our nation. Since the beginning of the Manhattan Project, the Y-12 National Security Complex has served not only the people of East Tennessee but our entire nation as America’s premier nuclear security complex for 70 years.

“While the complex will continue to serve a vital role in our nuclear legacy, as with any complex that has been in operation since 1943, many of the facilities are no longer in proper condition to serve the nation or to ensure the safety of our nuclear workforce. The Uranium Processing Facility will replace many outdated facilities and ensure we are able to continue the imperative mission of Y-12. Without the Uranium Processing Facility, our weapons complex will be unable to maintain our nuclear deterrent, which is simply not an acceptable option.

“As with any project of this magnitude it is crucial that we move forward with proper oversight to ensure that the Uranium Processing Facility is built to safely serve our nation for decades to come. It is also crucially important that this is done in a fiscally responsible manner, and that the project is completed within a reasonable timetable.”

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.